Check On Elderly & Disabled Neighbors During Extreme Weather

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning through 7 p.m. CDT Saturday, June 30.

Afternoon highs are in the mid-90s with nighttime lows in the mid-70s to near 80 degrees. Peak afternoon heat indices will be in the 110 to 120 degree range.

"Any time we have extreme temperatures in Orland Park, we ask everyone to check on their neighbors," said Trustee Pat Gira, chair of the village's Public Safety Committee. "Whether it's extremely cold or extremely hot, please make sure the elderly and disabled who live near you are comfortable."

The Orland Park Police Station, at 15100 South Ravinia Avenue, is the village's primary cooling center and is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"Those who need a cooling center should come to the police station and, if necessary, we can open other village buildings," said Police Chief Tim McCarthy.

Residents are encouraged to check on elderly and disabled family, friends and neighbors to make sure they're okay and have access to air conditioning. If someone needs help, call the police department non-emergency number at 708/349-4111. If it's an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

"The village is getting the word out to let people know where they can go if they don't have air conditioning," Gira said. "We are utilizing the village's website and social media to let people know that help is available."

The high temperature combined with sunshine and oppressive humidity will lead to potentially hazardous conditions especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two of the biggest concerns with excessive temperatures. High temperatures and humidity can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The risk is higher for the elderly or those with preexisting health conditions.

An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.